We first heard reports back in 2015 that the Xbox Live Avatars could be revamped. No definitive announcement was made until last year even though there were multiple hints suggesting that this was going to happen. Microsoft finally unveiled the new Xbox Live Avatars at the E3 2017 gaming convention and while it said that they would be released in the fall, we have yet to see them. According to a report, Microsoft is going to launch its new Xbox Live Avatars later this month.
The new Xbox Live Avatars bring more customization options as well as the ability to add wheelchairs to avatars. All of the clothing will be gender neutral so users will be able to dress their avatars how they see fit regardless of the gender.
The Verge reports that Microsoft is going to release its new Xbox Live Avatars to Xbox Insiders later this month. They’ve already been provided to the company’s employees. Microsoft is said to integrate the new system widely in the Xbox One dashboard with the characters also being available on the homescreen.
Microsoft may also launch an avatar store in May which will allow users to purchase additional customizations. This won’t be entirely new, though, as the old avatar system for the Xbox 360 had a store as well.